Rally expected to bring $500,000

Rally control team member Brian Wolff is looking forward to pulling his own motorhome out for Easter's event at the Mosgiel A&P Show grounds. Photo by Craig Baxter.

An economic boost to the Taieri of about $500,000 is expected
when nearly 800 motorhomes and caravans pour into Mosgiel at
Easter.

The New Zealand Motor Caravan Association's National Easter
Rally is being held at the Mosgiel A&P Showgrounds from
April 17 to 21.

It is expected to attract motorhomes and caravans from around
New Zealand.

Rally control team member Brian Wolff, of Sawyers Bay, said
rally participants were also being encouraged to come early
or stay on afterwards, as well as take part in a variety of
activities in the region, bringing an estimated $500,000
economic boost to the area.

Last year's Easter rally in New Plymouth attracted 832 motor
caravans generating $1.6 million for its economy.

Optional side trips being offered included Taieri Gorge
railway excursions, a four-wheel drive rally and a visit to
Outram's vintage machinery museum.

Activities at the rally's ''base'' at the showgrounds
included a marquee being put up in the arena to provide a
gathering point, entertainment, and also workshops around
motorhome ownership.

Mosgiel Business Association president Blair Arthur said
supermarkets, pharmacies and cafes would probably benefit the
most from the influx.

''It'll be like a cruise ship coming to Dunedin.''

As many would be setting up their caravans and motorhomes for
the whole extended weekend, Mosgiel would become their
''hub'', increasing their reliance on the services the city
provided, he said.

Given it was Easter, trading hours would be restricted for
many businesses, so the benefit would be less than if the
event was held on a normal weekend, Mr Arthur said.

''It's a good and a bad time to come.''

The association had passed on a list of its members and their
services to be included in the registration packs going out
to all participants, he said.

Mosgiel Community Board deputy chairman Mark Willis said the
organisers had presented to the board, making them aware of
the event and its impact.

The board planned to be a conduit between organisers and
those in the wider Dunedin community which could benefit from
the extra visitors.

''We want to make sure there is a good impact across the
region and make sure there are deals or vouchers for visitors
in the registration pack.''

Having the event in Mosgiel showed again how the
''satellite'' area was growing. It also showed the need to
look at the bigger picture when talking about amenities such
as a pool, he said.

As well as the motor caravan association's Easter rally,
numerous rallies were held during the year.

The total contribution to New Zealand's economy from the 225
area rallies held in 2012 was $4.2 million, according to the
association's internet site.

The association's records show the average member spent 75
nights away from home per year and $78 a day while
travelling, over and above camp site fees.